DESC:TECHNICAL FIELD:
Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to a system and a method to capture and supply gas. More particularly, the embodiments of the disclosure relate to the system and the method for capturing and supplying gas to one or more fluid bodies in a controlled manner.

BACKGROUND:

For certain applications (such as waste water treatment, hydroponics and the like), there exists a requirement of use of gases for performing certain functions. Such functions in industrial operations frequently arise either to dissolve a gas in to a liquid phase or to remove volatile matters from the body of a liquid. The former is termed as ‘Absorption’ while the latter is called as ‘Stripping’ in engineering terminology. In such cases, the gas should be supplied based on the requirement to achieve the desired results. It is known that the gases are generally supplied from the gas sources for use in various applications. The gas sources are typically provided with an outlet which is configured to supply gas for achieving the desired functions. It is important that the gases should be supplied efficiently from the gas source based on the requirement for particular application to prevent wastage of gases. Further, the gases should not be expelled to the atmosphere in order to avoid any harmful effect to the environment and the living beings.

The gas sources herein above and below are defined as any medium used for accumulating and storing gas. For example, the gas sources are such as but not limiting to storage tanks in which the gases are captured and stored in high pressure, bullets, and any other system such as but not limiting to waste water treatment reactors, static systems adapted to store gas in some medium and to release the gas for achieving an appropriate function/ effect.

Further, capturing and storing of gases at high pressure in the gas sources such as storage tanks is challenging and expensive task. Hence, it is appreciated that the gas coming from the gas storage tank should be supplied and utilized very efficiently without any wastage into the atmosphere. Furthermore, continuous supply of gas may not be required for certain applications. Thus, the gas should be supplied only when the need exists for the utilization of the gas.

Some examples are chlorination and ozonization for water disinfection, carbonation in the aerated water and beverage industry, oxygenation for waste water treatment etc. Most gases have a limited solubility in their respective media beyond which they tend to get released in the surroundings. This is dictated by the equilibrium level of gas with the respective liquid.

For such applications, the gas is to be supplied with either a minimum or very low pressure such as at few millimeters of Water Column generally referred as WC. Thus, in the existing systems a pressure regulator needs to be installed at the outlet of the gas sources to control the pressure. The drop down of pressure may require special heating arrangement to prevent ice formation around the pressure regulator and inside the gas storage tank due to adiabatic expansion. This, if not provided, may cause line choking and prevent smooth release of gas, and such other effects. For example, the gases such as but not limited to carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen are supplied in cylinders or bullets which are stored at very high pressure, around 23kg/cm2. These high pressure gases have to be bought to a low pressure value in range of few millimeters of WC for use in certain applications.

For example, one such application entails but not limiting to cultivation of organisms that require certain gases for growth thereof. Suitable examples of these organisms may include but are not limited to photosynthetic organisms, such as but not limited to algae. It is well known that the gas including but not limiting to CO2 is an essential nutrient for cultivation of such organisms and is supplied through the medium such as water in which the organisms are grown. Hence, the supply of CO2 to culture medium is a critical aspect in the cultivation process. Better the efficiency of CO2 distribution and absorption, better will be the cost economics of growth and cultivation. CO2 is considered as an example to facilitate understanding an application; however one should not consider the example as limitation.

One example of the conventional systems used for supplying CO2 to algal culture medium is a sparger type system as shown in FIG. 1a. The spargers are made of sintered silica or synthetic membranes having a fine pore size ranging from 0.5 microns to 10 microns. For a quick absorption rate the gas is mixed vigorously by way of bubbling (or sparging) through tiny holes made in the form of a pipe or disc. Thus splitting the gases in to micro sized particles tremendously increases the surface area for quicker dissolution of the gas molecules in to the liquid. Another way of mixing gas with liquid, as shown in FIG. 1b, is to use a venturi-mixing which typically takes place during a pumping action. Both liquid and gas get thoroughly mixed inside the pipe as the flow takes place and by the time it reaches the destination the desired level would have been achieved. The venturi mixing is also sometimes referred to as ‘gas diffuser’ which should not be confused with the natural diffusion process described in this document.

In the chemical process industry conventional methods of gas absorption in liquid media employ variety of mechanisms known as i) packed bed towers ii) spray towers iii) bubble plate columns which are outside the scope of this document as they are more process specific and seldom used in open air applications like water treatment or algae growth in open ponds. It is to be noted that in both cases- the sparger as well as venturi type mixing though the gas is absorbed temporarily in the liquid, due to physical equilibrium limitations, known in the field of chemical and physical equilibrium, all that is in excess of equilibrium quickly gets released to atmosphere and lost forever. One common example is that of opening up a soda bottle resulting in effervescent exit of carbon dioxide.

Therefore, in any application where gas is to be distributed in a controlled manner, an effective capturing, absorption and distribution system is required to ensure minimum loss of gas into atmosphere and maximize the supply of gas to achieve process economics.

Limitations of existing conventional gas capture and supply system is explained above for cultivation of photosynthetic organism (one of the field of applications of the gas capture and supply system) as an example. However, such example should not be construed as only application. Thus, person skilled in the art can envisage various other applications where such requirement exists.

In light of the foregoing, it is necessary to develop an efficient and cost effective system to capture and supply one or more gases in a controlled manner without wastage thereof to overcome the limitations stated above.

SUMMARY:

The shortcomings of the prior art are overcome and additional advantages are provided through the provision of a mixing device and an apparatus as claimed in the present disclosure.

Additional features and advantages are realized through the techniques of the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of the disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered a part of the claimed disclosure.

In one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure there is provided a system to capture and supply gas. The system comprises a container of predetermined shape configured to receive fluid. At least one gas distributor provisioned in the container for supplying gas into the fluid, wherein the at least one gas distributor is connected to at least one gas source. Further, a gas holder is configured over the container to capture excess amount of gas unabsorbed by the fluid, wherein the gas holder moves upwardly from the container upon collecting the gas unabsorbed by the fluid. The system also comprises at least one outlet port provisioned in the gas holder to supply the excess gas accumulated in a space formed between upper surface of the fluid and the gas holder to one or more fluid bodies through one or more floating gas holders. The gas holder moves downwardly in the container after supplying the gas to the one or more fluid bodies.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, shape of the gas holder conforms the predetermined shape of the container.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one regulator unit is provided in a gas flow line between the at least one gas source and the at least one gas distributor.

It should be construed that the moving gas holder is the gas source for the floating gas holder supplying gas to fluid bodies.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the system comprises a first switch and a second switch in the vicinity of the gas holder. The first switch and the second switch are positioned at predetermined offset, and are operatively coupled to the gas holder. Further, the first switch and the second switch are interfaced with a controller to operate an at least one regulator unit for regulating the flow of gas into the fluid in the container.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the container comprises at least one fluid inlet port and at least one fluid outlet port. Further, the at least one outlet port is fluidly connected to the one or more floating gas holders configured within fluid bodies.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the floating gas holder comprises of a pressure sensor which is interfaced with the Controller to operate at least one regulator unit (e.g., a solenoid valve) for regulating the flow of gas in to the floating gas holder.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the one or more floating gas holder comprises a spraying element to facilitate gas diffusion in to the fluid. The spraying element is supported by a bracket inside the one or more floating gas holders (such as a dome). Further, pressure of the one or more floating gas holder increases upon receiving the gas from the outlet port, and pressure of the one or more floating gas holder decreases upon distributing the gas to the one or more fluid bodies.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the gas holder is supported inside the container using a support mechanism. The support mechanism is at least one of centrally guided tubular support, telescopic cylinder, guide ways, and rollers.

In another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure there is provided a method for capturing and distributing gas using a system as explained above. The method comprises acts of supplying gas into a fluid in a container through at least one gas distributor, wherein the at least one gas distributor is fluidly connected to a gas source. Then, capturing excess gas unabsorbed by the fluid in a space formed between a gas holder and top surface of the fluid in the container, wherein the gas holder configured over the container moves upwardly from the container to collect the excess gas unabsorbed by the fluid. Then, supplying the gas accumulated in the space to one or more fluid bodies through at least one outlet port provided in the gas holder, wherein the gas holder moves downwardly into the container after supplying the gas to the one or more fluid bodies via one or more floating gas holders.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure method comprises act of regulating flow of gas from the gas source to the gas distributor through a regulator unit. Further, the regulation unit is operated by a controller which is interfaced with a first switch and a second switch.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, operating at least one of the first switch and the second switch by movement of the gas holder.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure method comprises act of regulating flow of gas from the moving holder to the floating gas holder through a regulator unit. Further, the regulation unit is operated by a controller which is interfaced with a pressure sensor fitted with the floating gas holder.

The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS:

The novel features and characteristic of the disclosure are set forth in the appended claims. The disclosure itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying figures. One or more embodiments are now described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying figures wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which:

FIG. 1a and 1b illustrates arrangement of the conventional type system used for dissolving a gas in any appropriate fluid as per the requirement.

FIGS. 2, 2a and 3 illustrate different embodiments of a system to capture and supply gas to fluid bodies.

FIG 4 illustrates distribution/ mixing of the gas inside a floating gas holder.

FIG. 5 illustrates graphical comparison of pH variation over hours of photosynthesis of the system of presnet disclsoure and the sparger type system.

FIG. 6 illustrates graphical comparison of optical density versus number of days for photosynthesis by the system of presnet disclsoure (J-01) and the sparger type system (J-02).

The figures depict embodiments of the disclosure for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.

DESCRIPTION:

The foregoing has broadly outlined the features and technical advantages of the present disclosure in order that the detailed description of the disclosure that follows may be better understood. Additional features and advantages of the disclosure will be described hereinafter which form the subject of the claims of the disclosure. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and specific embodiment disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same purposes of the present disclosure. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as set forth in the appended claims. The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the disclosure, both as to its organization and method of operation, together with further objects and advantages will be better understood from the following description when considered in connection with the accompanying figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that each of the figures is provided for the purpose of illustration and description only and is not intended as a definition of the limits of the present disclosure.

To overcome the limitations stated in the background, the present disclosure provides a system to capture and supply a required gas in the controlled manner. The system comprises a container for receiving the fluid. At least one gas distributor placed in the container, wherein said gas distributor is fluidly connected to a gas source for supplying the gas into the fluid. Further, a gas holder is configured over the container for capturing the gas unabsorbed by the fluid in the container. In addition, at least one outlet port is provided in the gas holder to supply gas accumulated in a space formed between the moving gas holder and upper surface of the fluid to one or more fluid bodies. In the system, the fluid stored in the container will absorb some amount of gas, and the excess gas which is unabsorbed or unadsorbed by the fluid will be trapped in an enclosure/gas holder also referred as moving gas holder. The trapped gas is then supplied in a controlled manner without any loss of the gas to the atmosphere. The moving gas holder ensures that the supply of gas is within the limits of low operating pressure. Further, the moving gas holder controls the flow of gas using automated actuation mechanism eliminating need for human intervention during the supply of gas irrespective of the rate of consumption.

In an embodiment, the system is configured to receive gas from the gas source such as but not limiting to gas storage mediums and any open/closed static systems. For example, the gas storage medium is selected from at least one of but not limiting to gas storage cylinders and bullets. However, other sources of gas is considered to be included as part of the disclosure if it could be envisaged by a person skilled in the art. Further, the open/closed static system can be selected from at least one of but not limiting to systems wherein gas is generated due to chemical reactions, systems wherein gas is generated during waste water treatment in a reactor, and the like. Other sources of gas could be anything which can supply/produce gas at a rate/ pressure not equal to the requirement of an application. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the gas source is connected to the container through a tubing system such as but not limiting to hoses, pipes and tubes, or the any other means which sever the purpose.

The moving gas holder is provided with one or more outlet ports, and said one or more outlet ports is fluidically connected to one or more floating gas holders which are disposed on the one or more mediums for supplying the gas for a particular application. For example, the medium is such as but not limiting to a water body. The outlet port is connected to medium using tubing system such as but not limiting to hoses, pipes and tubes.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the container is configured in a shape including but not limited to a circular shape, a rectangular shape, a square shape, a triangular shape or any other shape known in the art to serve the purpose. Further, the moving gas holder has a shape that conforms with the shape of the container. However, this should not be considered as limitation, any shape of the container and the moving gas holder which meets the requirement disclosed in this disclosure would still fall within the scope of the disclosure. The container and the moving gas holder can be made of a material selected from a group comprising but not limited to High-density polyethylene, mild steel, iron, Poly vinyl chloride, and their combinations. Further, the material may be a transparent, a translucent or an opaque material based on light requirements.

Henceforth the present disclosure is explained with the help of one or more exemplary embodiments. However such exemplary embodiments should not be construed as limitations of the present disclosure. The person skilled in the art can envisage various such embodiments without deviating from scope of the present disclosure.

In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the system is adapted for supplying gas to fluid bodies such as water bodies used for cultivation of organisms such as but not limiting to photosynthetic organisms. The water bodies used for culturing organism may also be referred to as bodies having culturing medium. Cultivation of photosynthetic organisms may be with or without soil. Thus, the present invention also extends its application to hydroponics. In yet another embodiment, the system can be used for supplying gas for aeroponics.

In an exemplary embodiment, the system is used for cultivation of, but not limiting to, algae in culture medium and the gas is, but not limiting to, carbon dioxide (CO2). The system is configured to supply carbon di-oxide into one or more culture mediums at a controlled rate. In the system carbon di-oxide will be supplied to fluid such as but not limiting to water in the container. The water along with other ingredients which are optionally present in the container, will absorb some amount of carbon di-oxide, and the unabsorbed carbon dioxide will be trapped in between the gas holder and top surface of the water. The gas trapped inside the gas holder will flow into floating holders provided in the fluid bodies such as but not limiting to water bodies by the weight of the gas holder acting on the culture medium in the container. This will cause diffusion of CO2 into algal culturing water body. The rate of diffusion will depend on the rate of intake of CO2 by the algae in the water body. It prevents the possibility of any wastage of the carbon dioxide due to the design that culture medium itself acts as a liquid seal. The system of the present disclosure takes advantage of diffusion mechanism.

As an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the system to capture and distribute the gases is used for cultivation of organisms such as photosynthetic organisms. The following explanation of FIG. 2, 2a and 3 is directed to different embodiments of a system which is used for capturing the gas from gas source and distributing the gas to one or more water bodies also referred as cultivation medium for culturing the photosynthetic organisms including, but not limited to, algae.

FIG. 2 is an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure illustrating a schematic diagram of system (100) for capturing gas and supplying the captured gas onto one or more fluid bodies such as but not limiting to water bodies (108). The system (100) comprises a container (101) configured to receive fluid. In an embodiment the container (101) is configured to receive and store fluid. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the fluid may include organisms such as but not limiting to photo synthetic organisms. The container (101) is provided with at least one fluid inlet (101a) configured to fill the fluid into the container (101) and to act as a gas seal. In one embodiment, the container (101) may be provided with
one or more fluid outlets (101b) to facilitate removal of the fluid from the container (101) alternatively. Further, at least one gas distributer (103) is provided in the system (100), and is fluidly connected to a gas source such as for example but not limited to a storage tank (104) through a fluid connecter (110) for supplying the gas into the fluid. Further, open end of the container (101) is configured with a gas holder (102) alternatively referred as moving gas holder to capture excess gas unabsorbed by the fluid in the container (101). In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the moving gas holder (102) can be adapted on the container (101) as an integrated sub element, and is configured to move through a guide centrally fixed (112a) to the support frame (112) of the container (101). In mechanism is installed on the container or proximal to the container to support the moving gas holder (102).

The term excess gas herein above and below is referred to a gas which is unabsorbed and/or unadsorbed by the fluid in the container once the fluid reaches saturation level of absorbing the gas supplied from the gas source. However, the excess gas may also include the gas which escapes from the gas distributor and gets collected in between the top surface of the fluid and the gas holder.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the container (101) is configured in a shape selected from a group comprising but not limited to circular shape, rectangular shape, square shape, triangular shape or any other shape known in the art to serve the purpose. Further, the shape of the moving gas holder (102) is such that it conforms to the shape of the container (101). The container (101) and the moving gas holder (102) can be made of a material selected from a group comprising but not limited to High-density polyethylene, mild steel iron, Poly vinyl chloride, and their combinations. Further, the material may be a transparent, a translucent or an opaque material based on light requirements.

In an exemplary embodiment, the gas distributor (103) is sparger, and mixing of gas is done through sparging into the container (101) filled with the fluid. The dissolution of gas depends on the size of the sparger’s (103) pore and the pressure of the gas. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the organism in the fluid absorbs certain quantity of gas. However, as fluid/organisms in the fluid cannot hold more than the saturation level, the excess gas which is unabsorbed escapes out into the moving gas holder (102). The excess gas unabsorbed bythe surface of the fluid is trapped inside the moving gas holder (102) and accumulated in the space formed between the moving gas holder (102) and surface of the fluid, and is held under a pressure which is exerted due to the weight of the moving gas holder (102). As a result of accumulation of the gas, the moving gas holder (102) gets lifted and moves upwards through the support mechanism.

Further, the system (100) comprises a regulator unit (106a) for regulating the flow of gas into the container (101) based on the quantity of gas accumulated inside the space formed between the moving gas holder (102) and surface of the fluid in the container (101). In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the regulator unit (106a) includes an actuator such as but not limited to a solenoid valve provided in a gas flow connector (110) for regulating the flow of the gas from, as an example but not limited to, the gas storage tank (104) to the container (101). Further, the system (100) includes a plurality of sensors provided at predetermined location in the vicinity of the moving gas holder (102) to detect the position of the moving gas holder (102). The sensors are interfaced with the regulator unit (106a) for regulating the flow of gas into the container (101). In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the sensors include a first switch (107a) and a second switch (107b) provided in the vicinity of the moving gas holder (102) with offset from each other. The first switch (107a) and the second switch (107b) are interfaced with a control unit (113) which in turn interfaced with the regulator unit (106a). The moving gas holder (102) is operatively coupled with first switch (107a) and the second switch (107b) which provides signal to the control unit (113) to control the regulator unit (106a) for regulating the flow of the gas into the container (101). When the moving gas holder (102) attains a maximum permissible height, due to accumulation of gas within it, the holder (102) will trigger the first switch (107a) which would give signal to the control unit (113) for actuating the regulator unit (106 a) to shut off the gas flow into the container (101) from the gas storage tank (104). Further, at least one outlet port (105) is provided in the moving gas holder (102) to distribute the gas accumulated in the space formed between the moving gas holder (102) and top level of the fluid to the one or more floating gas holders (109) disposed on a plurality of water bodies. The gas trapped inside the moving gas holder (102) will flow in to the floating holders (109) of the water bodies (108) by the weight of the moving gas holder (102) acting on it. The resulting pressure, in an exemplary embodiment, is in the range of 50 millimeter (mm) to 200 mm. As the gas flows out steadily, due to the consumption of gas by the floating holders (109), as an example for growth of photosynthetic organisms such as but not limiting to algae, it results in lowering the level of the moving gas holder (102). Once the moving gas holder (102) reaches a particular lowest level, the second switch (107b) is triggered by the moving gas holder (102) which would give signal to the control unit (113) to actuate the regulator unit (106a) resulting in gas flow into the container (101).

Additionally, the fluid (mixed with the gas) in the container (101) may be periodically circulated back to one of the water bodies (108) through the fluid outlets (101b) once the fluid in the container (101) gets saturated with the gas, to increase the efficiency of the absorption system. The recirculation of the fluid may be achieved by providing a recirculation mechanism at the fluid outlet. The recirculation mechanism may be selected from a group comprising but not limited to recirculation pump, water wheel, and hydraulic pump or by gravity or any other mechanism which serve the purpose.

In the proposed system (100), the gas is drawn into the container (101) intermittently by the use of regulator unit (106a). Thus there is no continuous flow of gas through the main regulator. The configuration of the gas capturing and distribution system (100) of the present disclosure is likely to avert any wastage/ loss of the gas, and proves to be a cost-effective and efficient system. Further, the system works with least human intervention.

FIG 2a is another exemplary embodiment of present disclosure, illustrating the schematic diagram of the system of Floating Gas Holder (109) for capturing gas and supplying the captured gas to the fluid bodies such as not limiting to the water bodies. This embodiment illustrates a floating gas holder (109) which is adapted to be disposed on the water bodies (108) such that the floating gas holder (109) submerged completely or partially in the fluid bodies such as but not limiting to water bodies (108). The floating gas holder (109) comprises an inlet port (109a) connectable to the outlet port (105) of the moving gas holder (102) for receiving the gas captured in the moving gas holder (102). This gas is then absorbed by the water bodies (108).

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the floating gas holder (109) comprises a body and an inverted dome attached to the body. Further, the floating gas holder (109) is configured in a shape including but not limited to a circular shape, a rectangular shape, a square shape, a triangular shape or any other shape known in the art to serve the purpose. However, this should not be considered as limitation, any shape of the floating gas holder (109) which meets the requirement would still fall within the scope of the disclosure. The floating gas holder (109) can be made of a material selected from a group comprising but not limited to High-density polyethylene, mild steel, iron, Poly vinyl chloride, and their combinations. Further, the material may be a transparent, a translucent or an opaque material based on light requirements.

In an alternative embodiment, the floating gas holder (109) can be provided with a sparger [similar to the one which as shown in the FIG.2]. The outlet (105) of the moving gas holder (102) may be connected to the sparger (103) for supplying the gas captured in the moving gas holder (102) into the water bodies (108). The sparging of the gas inside the floating gas holder (109) helps in diffusing of the gas into the culture medium thereby increases the gaseous content therein.

In another embodiment the gas holder (109) is provided with a pressure sensor (114) interfaced with a regulator valve (106b) to control the flow of gas from the Moving gas holder (102). It provides an electrical signal to the controller (113) to open the valve (106 b) when the preset lower value is reached and closes when the desired preset pressure value is attained. This ensures constant availability of CO2 to the culture flowing below the Floating gas holder.

FIG. 3 is another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure which illustrates a schematic diagram of the system (100) similar to the system as shown in FIG. 2, with the gas source (104) connected to gas distributer (103) from bottom of the moving gas holder (102). The gas source (104) is connected to the gas distributer (103) through a tubing system (110) such as but not limiting to hoses, pipes and tubes for supplying the gas. The moving gas holder (102) is provided with a leak proof provision such as gaskets (not shown) to accommodate the tubing system (110). As shown in FIG. 3 the container (101) is provided with a fluid inlet (101a) in at least one side of the container for receiving the fluid.

In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the floating gas holder (109) as shown in FIG. 4 includes a plurality of provisions (109b) at the bottom surface thereof to allow the culture medium/water to flow into the floating gas holder (109). The culture medium or water entered through the provisions (109b) makes contact with the gas supplied into the floating gas holder (109) through the inlet port (109a). In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a spraying element (111), such as but not limiting to, pump is installed inside the floating gas holder (109). The pump (111) sprinkles/sprays the components such as culture medium or water received through the provisions (109b) onto the gas received through the inlet port (109a) of the floating gas holder (109). This improves the diffusion of gas into the culture medium or water, thereby improves the efficiency of the system and prevents wastage of gas. In one embodiment, the pump (111) is supported and held inside the floating gas holder (109) through a support member such as but not limiting to bracket (111a).

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the floating gas holder (109) disposed on the water bodies (108) can be inflatable and deflatable dome type gas holders in the form of bellow. The inflatable and deflatable dome type gas holders are made of flexible material such that the dome inflates when the gas is supplied from the outlet port (105a), and the dome deflates when the gas is utilized/ distributed to the water bodies (108). In other words, unlike the rigid type holders where only the pressure changes, volume of the floating gas holder (109) increases upon receiving the gas from the outlet port (105), and volume of the floating gas holder (109) decreases upon distributing the gas to the water bodies (108).

Exemplary Experimental data:
The comparative study has been conducted between conventional sparger type system used to supply CO2 to algal culture pond, and a system of the present disclosure. For comparative study, cultivation of photosynthetic organism such as algae is considered.

For the purpose of experimentation, two raceway ponds each of 5sq.m area are chosen; one for the pond is adapted with system of the present disclosure and the other membrane sparging of CO2 gas. Both the systems are run continuously for three weeks with algae culture for photosynthetic comparison, and the cultures are periodically harvested and diluted to maintain them in active growth phase. Throughout the experimental period the pH of the algae cultures is maintained between 7.8 -8.0 ±0.05.

Both the ponds are installed with the pH probes, a real time pH changes are clearly visible for periodic recording. In both cases whenever the set point is exceeded the valve is opened and the gas is passed till the set point is reached. In case of Control Pond the set point is pH of 8.0 to open and 7.8 on the lower side to stop the gas. In case of diffuser dome the set point was ?P=0 to open the valve, and ?P= 110 mm WC to stop the gas. However, it was configured such that, at any given time the upper limit of pH 8.0 is never allowed to exceed by having the domes charged with CO2 gas. Both the ?P and pH are constantly monitored every half hour interval from 9:30 hrs to 18:00 hrs.

As the process of diffusion sets in, the ?P (delta Pressure) starts dropping. It may reach atmospheric pressure after about 3 to 4 hrs depending up on the rate of dissolution. Once the ?P becomes close to zero, again the gas is passed to ensure constant availabitlity of CO2 is there for algae growth.

The surface area of the sparger facilitating the gas contact is 364 cm2 while the surface area of gas contact in diffuser system is 3840 cm2.

In order to quantify the gas supplied, every time the cylinder weight is measured on an electronic weighing balance and recorded before and after the supply of CO2. As part of culture monitoring the daily routine of microscopy and Optical density measurements are also regularly done.

Typical pattern of CO2 demand as recorded in the Sparger system as well as in the diffuser system of the present disclosure is illustrated in FIG. 5. It is seen that over a period of eight hour operation, after the first correction of pH, the Sparger type system needed adjustment three more times, as against the system of the present disclosure consumes only once. In other words the gas absorbed through the Sparger did not sustain long enough to maintain the desired pH, instead it escaped in to the atmosphere.

On a weekly basis the gas consumed by the system of the present disclosure and the Sparger type system is given in the Table 1. From, the Table 1 it is evident that Sparger type system amount to 146% to 231 % excess consumption of gas as compared to system of the present disclosure.

Table 1:
I week ( 26-5 to 31-5) II Week ( 1-6 to 7-6) III week ( 9-6 to 16-6)
System of Present disclosure Sparger type system System of Present disclosure Sparger type system System of Present disclosure Sparger type system
480 gm 1110 gm 590 gm 980 gm 540 gm 790 gm
Excess (S/D): 231% Excess (S/D) : 166 % Excess (S/D) 146 %

The general growth observed did not show any abnormality on account of system of the present disclosure CO2 supply which substantiates that the actual requirement is far less than the amount sparged through the membranes as shown in FIG. 6.

Based on the two harvests and the yield of algae biomass, the specific consumption of CO2 is approximately 7.75 kg CO2 per Kg of biomass in J01, the present disclosure while in J02, the Sparger type supply, it is 17.41 Kg per Kg of biomass showing a clear saving of 124% of CO2 gas consumption by way of diffusion process.

Advantages:
The present disclosure provides a system to capture and supply gas which the gas is supplied to water bodies by a pressure based control of the gas holder (gas dome). Further, pH is maintained by suitable dome cross section area, hence pH drops gradually due to slow diffusion of gas in to the liquid. This is sustained for a longer duration without abrupt changes in pH.

Thus the sustained supply of CO2 helps minimization of gas loss which is a very valuable resource from productivity point of view. Thus for every kilogram of biomass production there is a possibility of reducing the cost of nutrient by more than half.

The automatically controlled Moving dome reduces the gas pressure from several atmospheres to only few mm of WC. This will help in reducing the cost of piping network as low pressure piping is far more economical than for higher pressures due to requirement of lower wall thickness. Such high pressure pipe lines if develops some crack or leak in flanges will lead to large gas loss as compared to very low losses in case of low pressure lines. The Automated dome thus plays an important role in supplying the gas to the multiple floating domes.

While used for growing photosynthetic organism like algae, the system can help assessment of rate of absorption by simply monitoring the ? P variation. For operational staff this can be a very useful tool to quickly judge the health status of the organism.

The present disclosure provides a system to capture and supply gas in which the regulation unit opens when the pressure drops to atmospheric level (Delta p=0) and closes when the pressure reaches the set value.

Equivalents:
The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained with reference to the non-limiting embodiments in the description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.

The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is
for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the embodiments as described herein.

Throughout this specification the word “comprise”, or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps.

The use of the expression “at least” or “at least one” suggests the use of one or more elements or ingredients or quantities, as the use may be in the embodiment of the disclosure to achieve one or more of the desired objects or results.

Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles and the like that has been included in this specification is solely for the purpose of providing a context for the disclosure. It is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form a part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the disclosure as it existed anywhere before the priority date of this application.

The numerical values mentioned for the various physical parameters, dimensions or quantities are only approximations and it is envisaged that the values higher/lower than the numerical values assigned to the parameters, dimensions or quantities fall within the scope of the disclosure, unless there is a statement in the specification specific to the contrary.

While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the particular features of this disclosure, it will be appreciated that various modifications can be made, and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the disclosure. These and other modifications in the nature of the disclosure or the preferred embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation.

Referral Numerals:

Reference Number Description
100 System to capture and distribute carbon dioxide
101 Container
101a Fluid inlet of the container
101b Fluid outlet of the container
102 Moving gas holder (MGH)
103 Sparger
104 Gas storage tank
105 Outlet port
106a and 106 b Regulator unit/ solenoid valves
107a and 107b First and second limit switches,
108 Water bodies
109 Floating gas holder
109a Inlet port
109b Water flow provisions
110 Gas flow connector
111 Spray element
111a Bracket
112 Support frame mechanism
112 a Central tubular guide
113 Controller
114 Pressure sensor

,CLAIMS:We claim:

1. A system (100) to capture and supply gas, said system comprising:
a container (101) of predetermined shape configured to receive fluid;
at least one gas distributor (103) provisioned in the container (101) for supplying gas into the fluid, wherein the at least one gas distributor (103) is connected to at least one gas source (104);
a gas holder (102) configured over the container (101) to capture the gas unabsorbed by the fluid, wherein the gas holder (102) moves upwardly from the container (101) upon collecting the gas unabsorbed by the fluid; and
at least one outlet port (105) provisioned in the gas holder (102) to supply the excess gas accumulated in a space formed between upper surface of the fluid and the gas holder (102) to one or more fluid bodies (108) through one or more floating gas holders (109), wherein the gas holder (102) moves downwardly in the container (101) after supplying the gas to the one or more fluid bodies (108).

2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein shape of the gas holder (102) conforms the predetermined shape of the container (101).

3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprises at least one regulator unit (106) in a gas flow line (110) between the at least one gas source (104) and the at least one gas distributor (103).

4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprises a first switch (107a) and a second switch (107b) in the vicinity of the gas holder (102).

5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the first switch (107a) and the second switch (107b) are positioned at predetermined offset, and are operatively coupled to the gas holder (102).

6. The system (100) as claim in claim 4, wherein the first switch (107a) and the second switch (107b) are interfaced with a controller (113) to operate an at least one regulator unit (106) for regulating the flow of gas into the fluid in the container (101).

7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the container (101) comprises at least one fluid inlet port (101a) and at least one fluid outlet port (101b).

8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one outlet port (105) is fluidly connected to the one or more floating gas holders (109) configured within fluid bodies (108).

9. The system (100) as claimed in 1, wherein the one or more floating gas holder (109) comprises a spraying element (111) to facilitate gas diffusion in to the fluid.

10. The system (100) as claimed claim 9, wherein the spraying element (111) is supported by a bracket (111a) inside the one or more floating dome (109).

11. The system as claimed in 1, the floating gas holder (109) comprises at least one pressure sensor (114) interfaced with at least one regulator unit (106b) between the outlet port (105) and the inlet port (109a) of the floating gas holder (109)

12. The system as claimed in claim 11, wherein pressure of the one or more floating gas holders (109) increases upon receiving the gas unabsorbed by the outlet port (105), and pressure of the one or more floating gas holder (109) decreases upon distributing the gas to the one or more fluid bodies (108).

13. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the gas holder (102) is supported inside the container (101) using a support mechanism (112).

14. The system (100) as claimed in claim 13, wherein the support mechanism (112) is at least one of centrally guided tubular support, telescopic cylinder, guide ways, and rollers.

15. A method for capturing and distributing gas using a system as claimed in claim 1, said method comprises acts of:
supplying gas into a fluid in a container (101) through at least one gas distributor (103), wherein the at least one gas distributor (103) is fluidly connected to a gas source (104),
capturing excess gas unabsorbed by the fluid in a space formed between a gas holder (102) and top surface of the fluid in the container (101), wherein the gas holder (102) configured over the container (101) moves upwardly from the container (101) to collect the excess gas unabsorbed by the fluid; and
supplying the gas accumulated in the space to one or more fluid bodies (108) through at least one outlet port (105) provided in the gas holder (102), wherein the gas holder (102) moves downwardly into the container (101) after supplying the gas to the one or more fluid bodies (108) via one or more floating gas holders (109)

16. The method as claimed in claim 15 comprises act of regulating flow of gas from the gas source (104) to the gas distributor (103) through a regulator unit (106).

17. The method as claimed in claim 16, wherein the regulation unit is operated by a controller (113) which is interfaced with a first switch (107a) and a second switch (107b).

18. The method as claimed in claim 17, wherein operating at least one of the first switch (107a) and the second switch (107b) by movement of the gas holder (102).

Dated this 18th Day of July, 2014 GOPINATH A. S. IN/PA-1852
OF K & S PARTNERS
AGENT FOR THE APPLICANTS